The Power of Delight: A Lifetime in Literature: Essays 1962-2002

This collection of essays deals, essentially, with all aspects of literature: from Joseph Conrad to Gogol, from Shakespeare to Lowell. Almost all of these essays are very good, showing not only why a certain author is important but also argue for a very specific view of him (or, more rarely, her). For example, seeing Gogol as the real father of Russian literature, he quotes--if I remember correctly--Dostoyevsky, who said that "We All Came from Under Gogol's overcoat", the reference being of course to Gogol's famous short story of the same name.) But that's not it; he shows *Exactly why* he thinks that Gogol--both in his personal life *and* in his works--does, indeed, deserve the moniker. If you are a literary buff, you will enjoy these essays immensely. You will consrantly find yourself think--reading about Tolstoy, Balzac, Lowell, Conrad, etc.--"A-HA! So THAT'S why I enjoyed him so much!". If there is a problem with this, it's only that the author is *so* convincing that often you suspend your criticism and your own views and replace them wholesale with those of the author (at least while you read). This, of course, is the usual risk when reading well-written works. One issue, though: one needs to remember that these essays are for those who love literature and read *A LOT* (though, it seems, NOBODY read as much as the author of these essays). If you are a casual fan of one or two authors, this book may be a waste of money for you--since you'll probably not "get" the many references the essayist uses in relating your favorite authors to the great web of literature. Still, it could be useful in showing you who should be "next in line" on your reading list. For the "Maven", highly recommended. For the causal fan of literature, it might be too strong a drink.